Odysseus Leadership Qualities

Guy Varshaver Ms. Dwyer 9 Honors English 12 April 2024 Odyssey Final Essay Odysseus: The Hero who overcame extreme challenges Zammm! There goes Spiderman going off to save the day as a hero, who is beloved by all. Odysseus, the mighty Greek, embarks on a series of challenges and obstacles while making his way home from the now-famous Trojan War. The veteran is homesick for his beloved home in Ithaca, with some gods on his side and others against him, both helping and preventing his return home. Rounding up strength, he starts his journey back. His travels are described in Homer’s Odyssey, where he demonstrates the qualities of an epic hero through his courage, intellect, and leadership. Courage is consistently shown through Odysseu’s actions in challenging encounters and situations throughout the books. Following

A hero’s ability to succeed depends on his ability to anticipate problematic situations and use quick thinking to overcome them. Odysseus demonstrates exactly that, by outthinking his opponents repeatedly and escaping Cyclops. Through tough obstacles, Odysseus evolves, revealing his true leadership qualities. When escaping the land of the Cyclops, reaching the Island across the harbor, Odysseus and his men bring back the sheep that they had taken where the rest of the crew is waiting safely. When they reach the shore and herd Cyclops’ sheep from the vessel, Odysseus makes sure that all the men get their share: “We shared them round so no one, not on my account, would go deprived of his fair share of spoils”(9.610-611). Odysseus demonstrates an immense amount of consideration and care for all his men. Ultimately solidifying himself as a likable role model, which is key to leading a group of people. Also portrays his fairness through his crew, putting no person above another. After a stay at Circe’s hall, it was time for the men to continue the journey